Page "Combat Groups of the Working Class" Paragraph 12

By 1989, the KdA's membership totaled approximately 210, 000 including approximately 187, 000 active members and the remainder in reserve.

Recruitment was accomplished by the party branches in the factories and enterprises.

Membership was voluntary, but SED party members were required to join as part of their party obligation.

Non-party members were compelled to join by the Free German Trade Union Federation ( FDGB ).

Men between the ages of 25 to 60 were eligible for membership.

Younger men, if they were not performing military service, were part of the Paramilitary Society for Sport and Technology ( GST ).

The KdA also had a large number of women who were mainly used in the medical and supply services.